Shallow can closure

ABSTRACT

A can closure includes a body with a center panel and a peripheral curl. The can closure body has one of a reduced panel depth, a very reduced panel depth, an extremely reduced panel depth, or a beverage can reduced panel depth.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application 62/737,982, filed Sep. 28, 2018, which application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. 62/616,735, filed Jan. 12, 2018, entitled SHALLOW CAN CLOSURE.

BACKGROUND Field

The disclosed and claimed concept relates to metal shells and/or can ends, and, more particularly, to shells and/or can ends that are a shallow can closure body.

Background Information

The following discussion uses beverage cans as an example. It is understood that that the disclosed and claimed concept is applicable to any size and/or type of can. Metallic containers (e.g., cans) are structured to hold products such as, but not limited to, food and beverages. Generally, a metallic container includes a can body and a can end. The can body, in an exemplary embodiment, includes a base and an upwardly depending sidewall. The can body defines a generally enclosed space that is open at one end. The can body is filled with product and the can end is then coupled to the can body at the open end. The container is, in some instances, heated to cook and/or sterilize the contents thereof. This process increases the internal pressure of the container. Further, the container contains, in some instances, a pressurized product such as, but not limited to a carbonated beverage. Thus, for various reasons, the container must have a minimum strength.

At one time, beverage can bodies and can closures were typically made from steel and steel alloys. For many years, beverage can bodies and can closures have been made from aluminum and aluminum alloys. The properties of steel and aluminum are very different; thus, aluminum can bodies and can closures are constructed differently than steel can bodies and can closures. For example, aluminum can closures generally include an “easy open” aperture. As used herein, an “easy open” can end includes a tear panel and a tab. The tear panel is defined by a score profile, or score line, on the exterior surface (identified herein as the “public side”) of the can end. The tab is attached (e.g., without limitation, riveted) adjacent the tear panel. The pull tab is structured to be lifted and/or pulled to sever the score line and deflect and/or remove the severable panel, thereby creating an opening for dispensing the contents of the container. As used herein, “tear panel” means a tear panel wherein, following severance of the tear panel, the tear panel remains coupled to the can end by a hinge. That is, a “tear panel” means the type of tear panel on a typical twelve ounce beer or beverage can and does not mean a removable tear panel as on a sardine can, pet food can, or, a beer/beverage can wherein substantially all of the end panel is also the tear panel.

For aluminum beverage cans, there is a common, or as used herein, “standard” container. The “standard” twelve ounce aluminum container utilizes a “211” can body, meaning that the can body has a diameter of substantially about two and eleven-sixteenths inches (2 11/16 inches). Such a can body is coupled to either a “202 B64” can closure, or, a “202 CDL” can closure. A “202 CDL” can closure has a diameter of substantially about two and two-sixteenths inches (2 2/16 inches, or, 2⅛ inches). As is known, the top end of a can body is tapered, or “necked-down,” to match the diameter of the can closure. Certain dimensions of a 202 B64 can closure and a 202 CDL can closure are shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, respectively. Further, as is known, a 202 CDL can closure is made from a blank having a volume of substantially about 0.05174 in³. A 202 B64 can closure is made from a blank having a volume of substantially about 0.0558 in³. Further, the 202 CDL can closure and the 202 B64 can closure are made from aluminum having an initial gauge (thickness) of about 0.088 inch. It is again noted that beverage cans such as the 202 CDL and 202 B64 are being, used as an example and that the disclosed and claimed concept is applicable to any size and/or type of can.

Generally, the strength of the container is related to the thickness and/or volume of the metal from which the can body and the can end is formed, as well as, the shape of these elements. This application primarily addresses the can ends rather than the can bodies. When the can end is made, it originates as a blank, which is cut from a sheet metal product (e.g., without limitation, sheet aluminum, sheet steel). As used herein, a “blank” is a portion of material that is formed into a product; the term “blank” is applicable to the portion of material until all forming operations are complete. Further, as used herein, “aluminum” and “steel” include aluminum alloys and steel alloys, respectively.

In an exemplary embodiment, the blank is formed into a “shell” in a shell press. As used herein, a “shell,” or a “preliminary can end,” is a construct that started as a generally planar blank and which has been subjected to forming operations other than scoring, paneling, rivet forming, and tab staking, as is known. FIG. 2A shows and identifies terms, as used herein, for selected portions of an un-seamed shell 1, i.e., a shell 1 that has not been coupled to a can body. The elements of a shell 1 (which are shown in ghost lines) include a center panel 2, countersink 3, chuck wall 4, a can fit radius 5, a seaming panel 6, and a curl 7. These elements are discussed in detail below. Once all forming operations are complete, the blank/shell 1 is further formed in a conversion press into a can end 8 that is structured to be coupled to a can body 14 (discussed below), as is known. As shown in FIG. 3, the can end 8 includes the elements of the shell 1 as well as a tab 9 that is coupled to the center panel 2 by a rivet R. Further, as defined below, the “seaming panel” 6 and a “can fit radius” 5 are included as part of the “curl” 7. Further, the top surface of the curl 7 defines a plane which is, as used herein, a “chime line.” To protect the tab 9 as well as the rivet R during forming and storage, the tab 9 and rivet R are disposed below the chime line when viewed in vertical cross-section, as shown. That is, in this configuration, the tab 9 and rivet R are somewhat protected within the cavity defined by the center panel 2 and curl 7. After a can end 8 is seamed to a container 70, and that container is heated or otherwise pressurized, the pressure causes the can closure 20 to dome. In this configuration, the tab 9 and/or rivet R may be disposed above the chime line. This error is identified as “tab-over-chime” and is generally avoided by the industry.

In the can making industry, large volumes of metal are required in order to manufacture a considerable number of cans. This is a problem. Thus, an ongoing objective in the industry is to reduce the amount of metal used for each can. A reduction in the amount of metal is accomplished by reducing the thickness or gauge of the stock material which is also referred to as “down-gauging,” or, the volume of metal used to create the can end or can body is reduced. Generally, material is required to form (at a proper thickness) the elements of the shell 1/can end 8, such as, but not limited to, the countersink 3, and/or chuck wall 4. Containers of a standard size and made from a standard material are well known in the art. For example, a “standard” container, as discussed above, is commonly used for “pop” or “soda.” Further, characteristics such as buckle strength and the pressure that such can end and container must resist are well known. Presently, can ends for such containers are made from blanks and/or shells that have, as used herein, a “standard volume.” That is, a “standard volume” means the volume of material associated with a shell or can end for a container of a standard size. The twelve ounce aluminum container is one well known example in the beer and beverage industry. It is, however, understood that there are many standard size containers. Thus, a “standard volume” means the volume of material associated with a shell or can end for a container of any standard size that is known in the art. As noted above, there is always a need to reduce the amount of material used for shells, can ends, and containers. Accordingly, the use of a shell or can end that was formed from a blank with a standard volume is a problem and there is room for improvement over the known art. Thus, there is a need for a shell and/or can end that utilizes a reduced amount of metal. The reduction in the amount of metal, however, should not substantially reduce the strength of the shell 1/can end 8 or the resulting container. That is, the shell 1/can end 8 or the resulting container must still be able to resist loads and pressures to which the shell 1/can end 8 or the resulting container is exposed during forming, filling of the container, and/or storage. To increase the buckle strength of the can ends, a can end includes various formations such as, but not limited to, a wide countersink.

Further, it is desirable to have a larger tear panel on a beverage can. That is, the larger the tear panel, the greater the flow rate of the beverage out of the can. The size of the tear panel, however, is limited by the size of the center panel. That is, generally, a smaller center panel limits the area of the tear panel. For example, many can ends 8 include a central, or concentric, rivet. A can end with a concentric rivet reduces the chance of an orientation problem during forming processes. That is, a can end 8 with a concentric rivet that rotates in a conversion press will maintain the rivet in a substantially central position whereas rotation of a can end with a non-concentric rivet will result in the rivet being in an undesirable position. Thus, when the rivet is disposed at the center of the can end 8, the tear panel must be disposed between the rivet and the countersink of the can end. When the can end includes a wide countersink, the area between the rivet and the countersink is reduced and, as such, the tear panel must be smaller. As an example, a 202 CDL can end has a tear panel measuring 0.5020 in.² and a 202 B64 can end has a tear panel with an area of about 0.5963 in.² It is noted that the distance between the tear panel and the panel break is generally similar on most can ends including most beverage can ends.

Further, certain improvements to a can end 8 result in other disadvantages. In summary, use of a thinner metal is desirable. Use of a thinner metal, however, requires the use of constructs such as, but not limited to, a wide countersink that improves the buckle resistance of the can end. The wider countersink, however, means that the center panel is smaller and therefore the tear panel is smaller. There is a need, therefore, for a can end that uses a smaller volume of metal. There is also a need for a can end that has a larger tear panel.

Further, while selected characteristics of a shell 1/can end 8 are problematic and can be improved, other characteristics are preferably maintained in their current form so as to be compatible with the existing infrastructure of the can making industry. For example, to be operable with existing forming machines such as, but not limited to, seamer (which couples a can end to a can body) a standard 12 ounce beverage can has an end diameter that is about 2.125 inches in diameter. Further, such a beverage can has a seam line diameter, defined below, of about 2.1020 inches. It is desirable for any new beverage can to maintain these characteristics.

Before discussing the relationship between various characteristics of a shell 1/can end 8, it is desirable to specifically define a number of terms relating to a shell 1/can end 8. Thus, on a shell 1/can end 8, and as used herein, the “center panel” 2 is generally planar and disposed within the countersink 3. Stated alternately, the “center panel” 2 is the generally planar portion about which the countersink 3 extends. As used herein, the center panel” 2 ends at a “panel break” 2A which is a radius, or curvilinear portion when viewed in cross-section as shown in FIG. 2A. As used herein, the “countersink” 3 includes the downwardly offset portion of the shell 1 below the plane of the center panel 2 (shown as the area below the line “CS”). The “countersink” 3 includes the “panel wall” 3A, a “bight” 3B, and lower portion 3C of the chuck wall 4. That is, when viewed in cross-section as in FIG. 2A, the “panel wall” 3A is generally planar and is disposed immediately adjacent (or contiguous with) the panel break 2A, the “bight” 3B is generally curvilinear (and in an exemplary embodiment has a single radius), and the chuck wall lower portion 3C is also generally planar. As used herein, the “chuck wall” 4 is generally planar when viewed in cross-section, as shown in FIG. 2A, but, in an exemplary embodiment, includes a slight curvilinear portion adjacent the can fit radius 5. That is, as used herein, the slight curvilinear portion of the “chuck wall” 4 adjacent the can fit radius 5 does not prevent the “chuck wall” 4 from being “generally planar” in cross-section as defined herein. Further, as noted above, a portion of the chuck wall lower portion 3C is also identified as part of the “countersink” 3. As used herein, the “curl” 7 includes the “can fit radius” 5 and the “seaming panel” 6. That is, as used herein, the “can fit radius” 5 is the portion of the “curl” 7 that, after the shell 1 is coupled to a can body, includes a generally inverted U-shape portion defining the “seam line” 5A, as defined below. The “seaming panel” 6, as used herein, is the portion of the curl 7 that, after the shell 1 is coupled to a can body 14 (discussed below), is in direct contact with the distal end of the can body. That is, the “seaming panel” 6 is rolled with the distal end of the can body and is that portion of the curl 7 extending beyond (when viewed in cross-section) the “can fit radius” 5.

It is noted that the distal end of the curl 7 is disposed well above the plane of the center panel 2. Further, because the shell becomes (i.e., is converted into) the can end 8, hereinafter any discussion or description of a “shell” 1 is also applicable to a “can end” 8. That is, generally, the names used above in connection with a shell 1 are also applicable to a “can end” 8 shown in FIG. 3. It is noted, however, that once the shell 1/can end 8 is seamed to a can body 14, certain elements thereof are identified by the following additional names. As shown in FIG. 2B, the curl 7 is coupled, by rolling and compressing, i.e., seaming, to a can body distal end 19. In this configuration, the can fit radius 5 is the generally inverted U-shaped portion disposed above the end of the seaming panel 6 (above the line CFR in FIG. 2B). The can fit radius 5 includes a vertex which is, as used herein, the “seam line” 5A. Further, the center panel 2 includes two score lines; a primary score 2B and an anti-fracture score 2C. As is known, and as discussed above, the primary score 2B extends substantially about the anti-fracture score 2C and defines a tear panel 2D.

With the portions of the shell 1/can end 8 as identified above, the following terms, as used herein, apply to the identified constructs. Further, the identified constructs are shown in FIG. 2B by the indicated letter. It is understood that, in an exemplary embodiment, the shell 1/can end 8 is generally circular. Further, it is understood that the center panel 2 is assumed to be planar and that all distances are measured either perpendicular or parallel to the plane of the center panel 2.

-   -   “A” is the “end diameter.” The “end diameter” is the diameter         measured at the radially outermost surface of the can fit radius         5 following seaming as well as across the center of the shell         1/can end 8, i.e., the radially outermost surface of the can end         8 following seaming. It is understood that the “end diameter” is         the diameter of the can end following seaming or coupling to a         can body. It is noted that for beverage cans, the “end diameter”         is generally consistent. That is, regardless of the other         characteristics of the can end 8, following seaming, the “end         diameter” is substantially similar to other beverage cans.     -   “B” is the “seam line diameter.” The “seam line diameter” is the         diameter measured at the seam line 5A as well as across the         center of the shell 1/can end 8. It is noted that for beverage         cans, the “seam line diameter” is generally consistent. That is,         regardless of the other characteristics of the can end 8,         following seaming, the “seam line diameter” is substantially         similar to other beverage cans.     -   “C” is the “center panel diameter.” The “center panel diameter”         is the diameter measured at the panel break 2A as well as across         the center of the shell 1/can end 8.     -   “D” is the “seam line gap.” The “seam line gap” is measured         between the seam line 5A and the panel break 2A. That is, D=B−C.     -   “E” is the “countersink gap” (or “trough gap,” as discussed         below). The “countersink gap” (or “trough gap”) is measured         between the chuck wall 4 and the panel break 2A at an elevation         corresponding to the top of the center panel 2.     -   “F” is the “countersink depth” (or “trough depth,” as discussed         below). The “countersink depth” (or “trough depth”) is measured         between the top of the center panel 2 and the outer, bottom         surface of the countersink 3.     -   “G” is the “panel depth.” The “panel depth” is measured between         the top surface of the curl 7 (or from the seam line 5A) and the         top surface of the center panel 2.     -   “H” is the unit depth. The “unit depth” is the sum of the         countersink depth and the panel depth. That is, H=F-G.     -   “I” is the “countersink radius” (or the “trough radius,” see         below). In an exemplary embodiment, there is a single         curvilinear portion to a countersink or a trough.     -   “J” is the “panel break radius.”     -   “K” is the “chuck wall angle.” The “chuck wall angle” is the         angle of the chuck wall 4 measured relative to a vertical axis,         i.e., an axis normal to the plane of the center panel 2. The         angle is “positive” when the chuck wall 4 is angled away from         the center panel 2 and is “negative” when angled toward the         center panel 2.     -   “L” is the “panel wall angle.” The “panel wall angle” is the         angle of the panel wall 3A measured relative to a vertical axis,         i.e., an axis normal to the plane of the center panel 2. The         angle is “positive” when the panel wall 3A is angled toward the         center panel 2 and is “negative” when angled away from the         center panel 2.     -   “M” is the “center panel diameter to end diameter ratio”         expressed as a percentage. The “center panel diameter to end         diameter ratio” is the ratio of the center panel diameter         relative to the end diameter. That is, C/A*100.     -   “N” is the “tear panel ratio.” The “tear panel ratio” is the         ratio of the tear panel area to the seam line diameter expressed         as a percentage. It is understood that this ratio compares an         area to a length and, as such, as used herein, the “tear panel         ratio” is expressed without units and, as noted above, as a         percentage. That is, the “tear panel ratio” is (tear panel         area)/B*100. The tear panel area of a 202 B64 can end is         substantially 0.5940 in². The tear panel area of a 202 CDL can         end is substantially 0.5020 in².

While again noting that beverage cans are being used as an example and that the disclosed and claimed concept is applicable to any size and/or type of can, as an example, a 202 B64 can end and a 202 CDL can end have the following characteristics. Unless otherwise indicated, measurements are in inches and the material thickness is substantially 0.0085 inch.

202 B64 202 CDL A 2.1250 2.1250 B 2.079 2.079 C 1.8154 1.7169 D 0.264 0.362 E 0.1465 0.057 F 0.0985 0.0905 G 0.180 0.168 H 0.278 0.258 I 0.020 (complex chuck wall) 0.009 (upper radius) and 0.025 (lower radius) J 0.20 0.0165 K 12°-14° 15°-18° (average of two portions of complex chuck wall) L 0°-2° 0°-2° M  85.4% 80.80% N 28.57% 24.15% These characteristics, are notable for the reasons set forth below.

The “unit depth” of a can end 8 is notable because the “unit depth” limits the number of can closures that can be conveniently stacked prior to being seamed to a can body. As is known, can closures are typically stacked for storage, transport, and prior to being fed into forming machines such as, but not limited to, a seamer that couples the can closures to a can body. Thus, the unit depth of a can closure is a problem and there is room for improvement over the known art.

Panel depth effects the unit depth. As noted above, panel depth is generally sufficient to prevent “tab-over-chime.” That is, panel depth is presently maintained at above 0.155 inch. This panel depth is maintained for reasons set forth above. Improvements in the rivet and/or tab, however, make the rivet and/or tab less susceptible to damage. Despite this, can ends maintain the panel depth of above 0.155 inch. This is a problem.

Further, the characteristics of the countersink 3, including, but not limited to, the width of the countersink 3, the angle of the chuck wall 4, the angle of the panel wall 3A and the radius of the bight 3B, affect the panel diameter to end diameter ratio which, in turn, affects the tear panel ratio. That is, given that the area, and/or the seam line diameter, of can end area is, essentially, predetermined, the size and characteristics of the countersink 3 determine the panel diameter to end diameter ratio and the tear panel ratio. For example, the 202 B64 can end has a maximum chuck wall angle of about 12.5° (or 12°, 30′) or a typical angle of 14.5°. This is one of the steepest angles known for widely available can ends. Even with this acute angle, the 202 B64 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of 87.06%. A larger panel diameter to end diameter ratio is desirable and, as such, the angle of the chuck wall 4 is a problem. The angle of the panel wall 3A affects the seamed area ratio in a similar manner and is also a problem. Further, the width of the countersink, i.e., the radius of the bight 3B, affects the seamed area ratio. Generally, the greater the radius, the smaller the center panel. As such, a countersink (or trough) with a large radius is also problem.

Further, the angle, and other characteristics, of the chuck wall 4 and the panel wall 3A affect the buckle strength of the can end 8. That is, a chuck wall 4 is typically positively angled, i.e., a chuck wall 4 is tilted away from the center panel 2 when viewed in cross-section, as shown in FIG. 2B. In this configuration, a substantial portion of the chuck wall 4, or the can closure body 22 in general (other than the curl), does not “abut” the can body 14 once the can closure 20 is coupled to a can body 14. See, e.g., FIG. 6 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,819,275. As used herein, “abut” means that two surfaces are in direct contact with each other. When a chuck wall 4 is tilted away from the center panel 2 and does not abut the can body 14, the can closure defines multiple direction pressure surfaces. That is, as indicated by the arrows on FIG. 2A, pressure produces a force that acts generally normal to a surface. This configuration is known to equalize the pressure in the area of the countersink 3. Thus, the space between the outer peripheral side of the countersink 3 and the can body 14 is, as used herein, a “pressure equalization chamber.” The pressure equalization chamber is a problem in that the pressure acting on a chuck wall 4 creates a force that acts to separate the can end 8 from the can body 14. Further, the existence of the pressure equalization chamber reduces the usable area of the can closure 20.

For example, in a 202 CDL can closure following seaming, the center panel 2 occupies about 81% of the seamed area. As used herein, the “seamed area” means the area of the can closure 20 defined by the seam line 5A. That is, the chuck wall 4 and countersink 3 occupy about 19% of the seamed area. In a 202 B64 can closure, the center panel 2 occupies about 86% of the seamed area and the chuck wall 4 and countersink 3 occupy about 14% of the seamed area. This is a problem because, as noted above, a limited center panel 2 limits the size of the tear panel 2D and opening through which the beverage is dispensed. Thus, a larger tear panel 2D and opening is desired.

That is, the tear panel 2D, i.e., the opening, on the can end 8 also occupies a portion of the total area of the can end 8. Presently, a beverage can end typically has a tear panel 2D ratio of about 1:6 with a tear panel 2D area of between about 0.402 in.² and about 0.50 in.², or about 0.46 in.² and a center panel area of about 2.687 in.² The existence of the chuck wall 4 and the countersink 3 limit the area of the center panel thus reducing the maximum area the tear panel 2D can occupy. This is a problem and there is room for improvement with respect to the chuck wall 4, the countersink 3, the can end 8 area including the center panel 2, the tear panel 2D and the opening ratio among other features.

It is further noted that a larger tear panel 2D is also desirable in the food can industry. Generally, for a food can, substantially all of the can end 8 defines the tear panel 2D. That is, for example, on a generally rectangular sardine can, the tab 9 is disposed adjacent a corner and, when used, substantially the entire can end 8 is removed. While such can ends are different when compared to beverage can ends, the disclosed and claimed concept is also useful for food cans because an increase in the tear panel 2D size creates a larger area for vacuum systems to hold the can end 8 during processing of the can ends and the cans. That is, during the forming process, vacuum systems are often used to maintain a can end 8 in a desired position. For food can ends, the generally planar tear panel 2D is a desirable location for a vacuum system to apply a vacuum. Thus, the larger the tear panel 2D, the larger the area for a vacuum system to apply vacuum and the better the vacuum system is at maintaining the food can end in a desired orientation or at a desired location.

Further, it is desirable to have a smaller seam line gap. That is, the smaller the seam line gap D, the larger the center panel 2 which allows for a larger tear panel 2D. The 202 B64 can end has a seam line gap D of about 0.264 inches. This is a problem and there is room for improvement.

Further, the can closure 20 is coupled to the top of a can body 14 as noted above. The can body 14, however, must have a sufficient height to accommodate the product as well as depth of the can closure 20. That is, the greater the unit depth of the can closure, the greater the height of the can body 14. Consequently, the volume of material must be sufficient to create the can body 14 with a sufficient height. For example, an aluminum can body for a twelve ounce beverage can has a height of between about 4.6 inches and 4.8 inches. The volume of the blank 1, when using sheet metal that is about 0.088 inches thick, required to create such a can body is about 0.1075 in³. This is a problem and there is room for improvement with respect to the volume of material sufficient to create the can body 14.

The characteristics noted above each affect the panel diameter to end diameter ratio which, in turn, affects the tear panel ratio. Presently, cans typically have a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio that is lower than 0.86 (or 86%). For the reasons set forth above with respect to the tear panel, this is a problem and it is desirable to have a higher center panel diameter to end diameter ratio.

Further, it is known that can closures are prone to buckle when exposed to high pressures within the can. Generally, improving the buckle strength of the can closure 20 required increasing the thickness of the can closure and/or creating a complex countersink 3. That is, as used herein, a “complex” countersink 3 means that the countersink included more than one curved portion. A countersink 3, or trough as discussed below, in this configuration is a problem.

There is, therefore, a need to decrease the amount of material in the shell 1 and/or can end 8 so as to decrease the total amount of material used to create the can end. There is a further need for a shell 1 and/or can end 8 having a reduced unit depth. There is a further need for a shell 1 and/or can end 8 that does not have surfaces that, when exposed to pressure, do not create forces that act in generally opposite directions. There is a further need for a shell 1 and/or can end 8 that does not have a chuck wall 4 with an angle greater than 14.5° and/or countersink 3, thereby allowing for a larger center panel 2 and a larger tear panel 2D. There is a further need for a shallow can end which exhibits some or all of the foregoing attributes that can be coupled, i.e., seamed, to a can body 14, such as a standard can body with a reduced height.

SUMMARY

These needs, and others, are met by at least one embodiment of the disclosed and claimed concept which provides a can closure including a body with a center panel and a peripheral curl. The can closure body is a shallow can closure body. In another embodiment, the shallow can closure body includes a narrow trough that increases the buckle strength and solves the problem(s) noted above. Further, a can closure with a narrow trough has a greater center panel area wherein the ratio and the panel diameter to end diameter ratio are increased solving the problem(s) noted above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full understanding of the invention can be gained from the following description of the preferred embodiments when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of a prior art can closure including exemplary dimensions. FIG. 1B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of another prior can closure including exemplary dimensions.

FIG. 2A is a side cross-sectional view comparing a can closure of the present disclosure to a prior art can closure. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of a can end coupled to a can body and showing various letters associated with various characteristics.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a prior art can closure.

FIG. 4 is a top isometric view of a can closure.

FIG. 5 is a bottom isometric view of a can closure.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a can closure.

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of a can closure.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure.

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a can closure.

FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of a can body and a can closure.

FIG. 11 is another side cross-sectional view comparing a can closure of the present disclosure to a prior art can closure.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side view of stacked and nested can closures.

FIG. 13 shows a cross-sectional side view of a container with a shallow can closure and a riser.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure with a tab coupled thereto.

FIG. 15 is a top isometric view of another embodiment of the can closure.

FIG. 16 is a bottom isometric view of the can closure shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 17 is a top view of a can closure shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view of a can closure shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side view of a can closure shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 20A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a can closure shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 20B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a can closure with a horizontally crimped trough.

FIG. 21 is a top view of a can closure with a tear panel.

FIG. 22 shows a cross-sectional side view of a container with a shallow can closure and a riser.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

It will be appreciated that the specific elements illustrated in the figures herein and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the disclosed concept, which are provided as non-limiting examples solely for the purpose of illustration. Therefore, specific dimensions, orientations, assembly, number of components used, embodiment configurations and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting on the scope of the disclosed concept.

Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example, clockwise, counterclockwise, left, right, top, bottom, upwards, downwards and derivatives thereof, relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the drawings and are not limiting upon the claims unless expressly recited therein.

As used herein, the singular form of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, “structured to [verb]” means that the identified element or assembly has a structure that is shaped, sized, disposed, coupled and/or configured to perform the identified verb. For example, a member that is “structured to move” is movably coupled to another element and includes elements that cause the member to move or the member is otherwise configured to move in response to other elements or assemblies. As such, as used herein, “structured to [verb]” recites structure and not function. Further, as used herein, “structured to [verb]” means that the identified element or assembly is intended to, and is designed to, perform the identified verb. Thus, an element that is merely capable of performing the identified verb but which is not intended to, and is not designed to, perform the identified verb is not “structured to [verb].”

As used herein, “associated” means that the elements are part of the same assembly and/or operate together, or, act upon/with each other in some manner. For example, an automobile has four tires and four hub caps. While all the elements are coupled as part of the automobile, it is understood that each hubcap is “associated” with a specific tire.

As used herein, a “coupling assembly” includes two or more couplings or coupling components. The components of a coupling or coupling assembly are generally not part of the same element or other component. As such, the components of a “coupling assembly” may not be described at the same time in the following description.

As used herein, a “coupling” or “coupling component(s)” is one or more component(s) of a coupling assembly. That is, a coupling assembly includes at least two components that are structured to be coupled together. It is understood that the components of a coupling assembly are compatible with each other. For example, in a coupling assembly, if one coupling component is a snap socket, the other coupling component is a snap plug, or, if one coupling component is a bolt, then the other coupling component is a nut.

As used herein, a “fastener” is a separate component structured to couple two or more elements. Thus, for example, a bolt is a “fastener” but a tongue-and-groove coupling is not a “fastener.” That is, the tongue-and-groove elements are part of the elements being coupled and are not a separate component.

As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components are “coupled” shall mean that the parts are joined or operate together either directly or indirectly, i.e., through one or more intermediate parts or components, so long as a link occurs. As used herein, “directly coupled” means that two elements are directly in contact with each other. As used herein, “fixedly coupled” or “fixed” means that two components are coupled so as to move as one while maintaining a constant orientation relative to each other. Accordingly, when two elements are coupled, all portions of those elements are coupled. A description, however, of a specific portion of a first element being coupled to a second element, e.g., an axle first end being coupled to a first wheel, means that the specific portion of the first element is disposed closer to the second element than the other portions thereof. Further, an object resting on another object held in place only by gravity is not “coupled” to the lower object unless the upper object is otherwise maintained substantially in place. That is, for example, a book on a table is not coupled thereto, but a book glued to a table is coupled thereto.

As used herein, the phrase “removably coupled” or “temporarily coupled” means that one component is coupled with another component in an essentially temporary manner. That is, the two components are coupled in such a way that the joining or separation of the components is easy and would not damage the components. For example, two components secured to each other with a limited number of readily accessible fasteners, i.e., fasteners that are not difficult to access, are “removably coupled” whereas two components that are welded together or joined by difficult to access fasteners are not “removably coupled.” A “difficult to access fastener” is one that requires the removal of one or more other components prior to accessing the fastener wherein the “other component” is not an access device such as, but not limited to, a door.

As used herein, “temporarily disposed” means that a first element(s) or assembly (ies) is resting on a second element(s) or assembly(ies) in a manner that allows the first element/assembly to be moved without having to decouple or otherwise manipulate the first element. For example, a book simply resting on a table, i.e., the book is not glued or fastened to the table, is “temporarily disposed” on the table.

As used herein, “operatively coupled” means that a number of elements or assemblies, each of which is movable between a first position and a second position, or a first configuration and a second configuration, are coupled so that as the first element moves from one position/configuration to the other, the second element moves between positions/configurations as well. It is noted that a first element may be “operatively coupled” to another without the opposite being true.

As used herein, “correspond” indicates that two structural components are sized and shaped to be similar to each other and may be coupled with a minimum amount of friction. Thus, an opening which “corresponds” to a member is sized slightly larger than the member so that the member may pass through the opening with a minimum amount of friction. This definition is modified if the two components are to fit “snugly” together. In that situation, the difference between the size of the components is even smaller whereby the amount of friction increases. If the element defining the opening and/or the component inserted into the opening are made from a deformable or compressible material, the opening may even be slightly smaller than the component being inserted into the opening. With regard to surfaces, shapes, and lines, two, or more, “corresponding” surfaces, shapes, or lines have generally the same size, shape, and contours.

As used herein, a “path of travel” or “path,” when used in association with an element that moves, includes the space an element moves through when in motion. As such, any element that moves inherently has a “path of travel” or “path.” Further, a “path of travel” or “path” relates to a motion of one identifiable construct as a whole relative to another object. For example, assuming a perfectly smooth road, a rotating wheel (an identifiable construct) on an automobile generally does not move relative to the body (another object) of the automobile. That is, the wheel, as a whole, does not change its position relative to, for example, the adjacent fender. Thus, a rotating wheel does not have a “path of travel” or “path” relative to the body of the automobile. Conversely, the air inlet valve on that wheel (an identifiable construct) does have a “path of travel” or “path” relative to the body of the automobile. That is, while the wheel rotates and is in motion, the air inlet valve, as a whole, moves relative to the body of the automobile.

As used herein, the statement that two or more parts or components “engage” one another means that the elements exert a force or bias against one another either directly or through one or more intermediate elements or components. Further, as used herein with regard to moving parts, a moving part may “engage” another element during the motion from one position to another and/or may “engage” another element once in the described position. Thus, it is understood that the statements, “when element A moves to element A first position, element A engages element B,” and “when element A is in element A first position, element A engages element B” are equivalent statements and mean that element A either engages element B while moving to element A first position and/or element A engages element B while in element A first position.

As used herein, “operatively engage” means “engage and move.” That is, “operatively engage” when used in relation to a first component that is structured to move a movable or rotatable second component means that the first component applies a force sufficient to cause the second component to move. For example, a screwdriver may be placed into contact with a screw. When no force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is merely “temporarily coupled” to the screw. If an axial force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver is pressed against the screw and “engages” the screw. However, when a rotational force is applied to the screwdriver, the screwdriver “operatively engages” the screw and causes the screw to rotate. Further, with electronic components, “operatively engage” means that one component controls another component by a control signal or current.

As used herein, the word “unitary” means a component that is created as a single piece or unit. That is, a component that includes pieces that are created separately and then coupled together as a unit is not a “unitary” component or body.

As used herein, the term “number” shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality). That is, for example, the phrase “a number of elements” means one element or a plurality of elements.

As used herein, in the phrase “[x] moves between its first position and second position,” or, “[y] is structured to move [x] between its first position and second position,” “[x]” is the name of an element or assembly. Further, when [x] is an element or assembly that moves between a number of positions, the pronoun “its” means “[x],” i.e., the named element or assembly that precedes the pronoun “its.”

As used herein, “about” in a phrase such as “disposed about [an element, point or axis]” or “extend about [an element, point or axis]” or “[X] degrees about an [an element, point or axis],” means encircle, extend around, or measured around. When used in reference to a measurement or in a similar manner, “about” means “approximately,” i.e., in an approximate range relevant to the measurement as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, a “radial side/surface” for a circular or cylindrical body is a side/surface that extends about, or encircles, the center thereof or a height line passing through the center thereof. As used herein, an “axial side/surface” for a circular or cylindrical body is a side that extends in a plane extending generally perpendicular to a height line passing through the center. That is, generally, for a cylindrical soup can, the “radial side/surface” is the generally circular sidewall and the “axial side(s)/surface(s)” are the top and bottom of the soup can.

As used herein, a “product side” means the side of a construct used in a container that contacts, or could contact, a product such as, but not limited to, a food or beverage. That is, the “product side” of the construct is the side of the construct that, eventually, defines the interior of a container.

As used herein, a “customer side” means the side of a construct used in a container that does not contact, or could not contact, a product such as, but not limited to, a food or beverage. That is, the “customer side” of the construct is the side of the construct that, eventually, defines the exterior of a container.

As used herein, “generally curvilinear” includes elements having multiple curved portions, combinations of curved portions and planar portions, and a plurality of planar portions or segments disposed at angles relative to each other thereby forming a curve.

As used herein, “generally” means “in a general manner” relevant to the term being modified as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, “substantially” means “for the most part” relevant to the term being modified as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, “at” means on and/or near relevant to the term being modified as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

As used herein, a “can closure” means a shell or a can end. A “can closure” includes a “center panel” and a “curl.” Unless otherwise noted, the “can closure” is discussed in the configuration prior to seaming to a can body. That is, any characteristics discussed below relate to an unseamned can closure. As used herein, a “center panel” is generally planar when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel. This definition applies even if the center panel is domed or otherwise deformed due to pressure after the can closure is in use, or, due to other forming procedures. As used herein, a “curl” is generally curvilinear when viewed in cross-section. As used herein, portions of a can closure typically identified as a “seaming panel” and a “can fit radius” are included as part of the “curl.” Further, the top surface of the curl defines a plane which is, as used herein, a “chime line.” That is, as used herein, a curl inherently defines a “chime line.” Traditionally, between the “center panel” and the “curl” is a “countersink” and a “chuck wall.” As will be described herein, a can closure in accordance with the disclosed concept, unlike the prior art, does not include a countersink.

As used herein, a “shallow” can closure body (i.e., a shell or can end) means that, when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel and prior to seaming, the distal tip of the curl is generally in, or immediately adjacent, the plane defined by the center panel. Further, for a “shallow” can end following seaming and pressurization of the container, a portion of the rivet and/or the tab are disposed above the chime line. More generally, as will be discussed in greater detail herein, a “shallow” can closure body in accordance with the embodiments of the disclosed concept are substantially smaller in the vertical dimension, i.e., more shallow, compared to prior art shells and can ends.

As used herein, a “countersink” is a downwardly formed radial channel extending around, and below the plane of, a center panel on a can closure. When viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel, a “countersink” is generally U-shaped with a generally planar center side and a generally planar peripheral side and a curvilinear bottom, or “bight,” therebetween. The “countersink” begins at the periphery of the center panel and extends to a location on the peripheral side that is generally in the plane of the center panel. The structure above this location is the “chuck wall.” In some embodiments, there is a “panel up,” as defined below, disposed about the countersink. That is, some countersinks include a small step about the inner periphery when viewed in cross-section. For a 202 CDL can closure, FIG. 1B, the unit depth is substantially about 0.25 inch and the radius of the countersink is about 0.024 inch. For a B64 can closure, FIG. 1A, the unit depth is substantially about 0.27 inch and the radius of the countersink is about 0.020 inch. Further, to be a “countersink,” the peripheral side is contiguous with a chuck wall and the combined height of the peripheral side and the chuck wall is sufficient so that, when a tab is coupled to the center panel by a rivet, no part of the tab and the associated rivet extend above the chime line. Further, in one common embodiment, a “countersink” includes a peripheral side (as well as the contiguous chuck wall) that is at an angle of, or more than, 12.3°. As used herein, the “angle” of a chuck wall (or a seam wall) is measured relative to a vertical axis, i.e., an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel, with a positive angle being tilted away from the center panel. Some countersinks are tilted relative to the center panel. That is, a line normal to the center of the bight extends at an angle other than substantially ninety degrees to the plane of the center panel. As used herein, the “angle” of the countersink peripheral side is measured relative to an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel regardless of any tilt in the countersink.

As used herein, a “chuck wall” means the construct between the countersink and the curl. In an exemplary embodiment, the “chuck wall” is generally planar when viewed in cross-section. Other embodiments of a “chuck wall” include tapered portions, changes in the angle (sometimes identified as “steps”) or curvilinear portions. The angle of a “chuck wall” is measured relative to an axis that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel. Further, as used herein, the proximal end of the “chuck wall” is immediately adjacent the “countersink” and the distal end of the “chuck wall” is immediately adjacent the curl (or can fit radius). Further, and as used herein, a “steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 12.0° including any “negative” angles. As used herein, a “very steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 10.0° including any “negative” angles. As used herein, an “extremely steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 5.0° including any “negative” angles. As used herein, an “exceedingly steep chuck wall” is a chuck wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 4.0° including any “negative” angles.

As used herein, a “trough” is a gutter extending about a center panel on a can closure created by a “panel up” as discussed below. When viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel, a “trough” is generally U-shaped with a generally planar center side and a generally planar peripheral side and a curvilinear bottom, or “bight,” therebetween. In an exemplary embodiment, the “trough” has a radius of about 0.010 inch and a can closure including a “trough” has a unit depth of about 0.1282 inch. Further, to be a “trough,” the peripheral side is contiguous with a “chuck wall” and the combined height of the peripheral side and the chuck wall is not sufficient to position a tab and the associated rivet below the chime line. As used herein, the physical characteristics described in this definition define a “trough.” Stated alternately, the panel up process, described above and below, that creates a “trough,” is just one process by which a “trough” is created. As such, and as used herein, a “trough” is not a product-by-process. Further, it is noted that a countersink, which is created using a downward forming motion at the area of the countersink is not a “trough.”

As used herein, a “beverage can” means an aluminum container structured to contain a beverage. Thus, when any construct is modified by the adjective “beverage,” it means that the construct is structured to be part of “beverage can.” Further, as used herein, a “high pressure” beverage means a carbonated beverage or beer. Thus, a “high pressure beverage can” means an aluminum container structured to contain a carbonated beverage or beer. Further, when any construct is modified by the adjective “high pressure beverage,” it means that the construct is structured to be part of a “high pressure beverage can.” Further, as is known, a “beverage can” has a diameter of between about 2.60 and about 2.67 inches which is, as used herein, a “standard diameter.” Such a “standard diameter” is commonly associated with a container for substantially twelve ounces of liquid and is also used with containers structured to contain between eight and sixteen ounces of liquid.

As used herein, “standard,” as used in a “standard container” or “standard shell,” means a construct used in association with a specific product and which is used by more than one product manufacturer. As noted above, for a product such as soda, pop, and/or beer, many manufacturers use an aluminum twelve fluid ounce container. Thus, such a container, as well as the components therefore (e.g., the shell, can end, and can body), is a “standard” container, a “standard” shell, a “standard” can end, and a “standard” can body. “Standard” containers, as well as the components therefore, are well known in the art. It is, however, understood that the disclosed and claimed concept can be employed with can closures of any size or shape including non-standard sizes and shapes.

As used herein, and when used to describe a can closure, a “reduced volume” means a volume that is about 5% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size. Further, as used herein, a “very reduced volume” means a volume that is about 6% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size. Further, as used herein, an “extremely reduced volume” means a volume that is about 8% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size. Further, as used herein, an “exceptionally reduced volume” means a volume that is about 12% less than the volume of a prior art can closure for a container of a similar size.

As used herein, a “limited direction pressure surface” means a surface of a can closure wherein the surface is other than planar and which does not include any adjacent surfaces wherein lines normal (perpendicular) to the surfaces define an angle (excluding reflex angles) between about 45°-135°. As used herein, the term “adjacent surfaces” of a “limited direction pressure surface” means surfaces that are defined by a chuck wall and a center panel (optionally, a trough) when viewed in cross-section in a plane that is generally normal to the plane of the center panel and which are disposed on the same lateral side of the can closure. Thus, for example, the surfaces disposed 180° apart on a generally circular can closure are not “adjacent surfaces.”

In an exemplary embodiment, the can closure 20, when coupled to a can body 14 is in a “pressure equalization chamber free” configuration. That is, a “pressure equalization chamber free” configuration means that when the can closure is seamed to a can body, the can closure and can body do not define a “pressure equalization chamber,” as defined above.

The following description provides for forming a can closure 20, shown in FIGS. 2A and 4-9, made from a reduced volume of aluminum and having a shallow can closure body 22. As is known, the can closure 20 is initially a blank cut from sheet material. In an exemplary embodiment, the sheet material is aluminum or an aluminum alloy with a gauge (thickness) of about 0.0092 inch. The sheet material, and therefore the blank, have a base thickness. Unless altered by forming operations, as described below, portions of the blank and the can closure 20, maintain the base thickness. Further, the following discussion and the Figures use a generally cylindrical can closure 20 as an example. It is understood that the disclosed and claimed concept is operable with can closures 20 of any shape and the cylindrical shape discussed and shown is exemplary only. Further, as shown in FIG. 10, a can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a can body 14 having a corresponding cross-sectional shape thereby forming a container 70. As is known, a can body 14 includes a base 16 and an upwardly depending sidewall 18. The can closure 20 is coupled to the upper, distal end of the can body sidewall 18. Thus, a can body 14 has a height and, the can closure 20 is coupled to the can body 14; the container 70 has a height generally equal to the can body 14 height and the unit depth of the can closure 20.

In an exemplary embodiment, the can closure 20 includes a body 22 that, when forming operations are complete, or substantially complete, include a center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and a peripheral curl 34. The chuck wall 32 is, in alternate embodiments, a “steep chuck wall,” a “very steep chuck wall.” an “extremely steep chuck wall.” or an “exceedingly steep chuck wall” As defined above, the peripheral curl 34 includes a seaming panel 36 and a can fit radius 38 that are included as part of the peripheral curl 34. In this embodiment, there is no channel, gutter or other construct between the center panel 30 or a chuck wall 32 and, as such, the volume of material required for the can closure body 22 is less than the amount of material required for a prior art can closure body.

In an exemplary embodiment, the can closure body 22 has a “reduced volume,” as defined above. A can closure with reduced volume solves the problem(s) noted above. Further, in an exemplary embodiment that includes a trough 42, discussed below, the can closure 20, or can closure body 22, includes a panel break 50, a panel wall 52, and a bight 54. The trough 42 includes the panel wall 52, the bight 54 as well as a lower portion of the chuck wall 32. Similar to the prior art described above, the trough 42, i.e., the panel wall 52, is the generally planar portion (when viewed in cross-section as shown in FIG. 2B) adjacent the panel break 50. The panel break 50 has a radius. In an exemplary embodiment, the panel break 50 is between about 0.005 inch and 0.025 inch, or about 0.015 inch.

Further, the exemplary can closure body 22 has a “unit depth” that is less than a prior art can closure body. That is, in the disclosed embodiment, the can closure body 22 is a “shallow” can closure body 22. In an exemplary embodiment, and as used herein, a “shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less than 0.25 inch. As used herein, a “very shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less than 0.20 inch. As used herein, an “extremely shallow” can closure body 22 has unit depth of less than 0.15 inch. As used herein, a “shallow beverage can closure” has a unit depth of about 0.120 inch. A shallow can closure body 22 (or a very shallow can closure body, an extremely shallow, or a shallow beverage can closure) solves the problem(s) noted above. The shallow can closure body 22 is shown in comparison to prior art shells 1 in FIGS. 2A and 11. FIG. 12 shows an exemplary embodiment of shallow can closure bodies 22 in a stacked and nested configuration.

Further, a can closure body has a “panel depth.” As used herein, the “panel depth” is the distance between the chime line and the top surface of the center panel 30. The shallow can closure body 22 has one of a reduced panel depth, a very reduced panel depth, an extremely reduced panel depth or a beverage can reduced panel depth. As used herein, a “reduced panel depth” means a distance of less than 0.150 inch. As used herein, a “very reduced panel depth” means a distance of less than 0.110 inch. As used herein, an “extremely reduced panel depth” means a distance of less than 0.070 inch. As used herein, a “beverage can reduced panel depth” means a distance of about 0.0532 inch.

For a can closure 20 with a tab 60, i.e., a can end 8, in any of the “shallow” configurations, or any of the “reduced panel depth” configurations, does not include a “tab-over-chime.” Thus, the tab 60 and the rivet 62 are protected when the can closures 20 are stacked. Due to the reduced unit/panel depth, however, the stacked can closures 20 occupy less space (for an equal number of can closures) compared to the prior art. This solves the problem(s) stated above.

The chuck wall 32 is disposed between the center panel 30 and the curl 34. As defined above, a chuck wall 32 is a peripheral wall of a can closure which has an angle of less than 12.6° and which includes any “negative” angles. Further, a chuck wall 32, in an exemplary embodiment, is structured to, and does, abut a can body 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the chuck wall 32 has an angle selected from the group consisting of less than 10° and between about 2° and about 3°. In this configuration, and after the can closure body 22 is coupled to a can body 14, the chuck wall 32 defines a limited direction pressure surface. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, and as indicated by the arrows, the force generated by pressure in a container 70 does not act in generally opposite directions. Further, no force created by pressure on the can body 14 acts in an opposing direction relative to the force generated on the can closure body 22.

Further, in an exemplary embodiment as shown in FIG. 14, when the (unseamed) shallow can closure 20 includes a tab 60 coupled thereto by a rivet 62, the height of the chuck wall 32 is sufficient to position the tab 60 below the chime line. It is noted, however, that following seaming and pressurization of the container 70, the tab 60 and/or rivet 62, or a portion of either, is disposed above the chime line. Stated alternately, and following seaming and pressurization, the can closure body 22 is in an “intentional tab-over-chime” configuration. As used herein, an “intentional tab-over-chime” is a configuration wherein the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is intentionally disposed above the chime line. That is, the final position of the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is determined by the initial configuration of the center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and the peripheral curl 34. A center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and peripheral curl 34 structured to intentionally be formed so that the rivet 62 and/or the tab 60 is disposed above the chime line create an intentional tab-over-chime configuration. As an intentional tab-over-chime configuration relates to the characteristics of the center panel 30, a chuck wall 32, and peripheral curl 34 and not the forming process, as used herein, an “intentional tab-over-chime” is not a product by process.

In an exemplary embodiment, shown in FIGS. 15-20B, the can closure body 22, and more specifically, the center panel 30, includes a “panel up” 40. As used herein, a “panel up” 40 is a portion of a center panel 30, including substantially all of the center panel 30, that has been shifted upwardly relative to the other portions of the can closure body 22. When the can closure body 22 includes a panel up 40, a trough 42 is created at the periphery of the center panel 30. That is, as used herein, the “trough” 42 is adjacent the center panel 30 and is disposed between the panel up 40 and the chuck wall 32. Further, as noted above, the term “trough” relates to the physical characteristics as defined above and does not mean a construct defined as a product-by-process. Further, a “countersink” 3 is a construct formed by a downward forming operation and results in a substantial unit depth as compared to a panel up 40 and trough 42 of the disclosed and claimed concept, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 11. Generally, a trough 42 has a smaller radial width than a countersink 3.

A can closure body 22 without a countersink and/or a chuck wall has a center panel 30 with a greater area compared to a prior art can closure that includes a countersink 3 and/or a chuck wall 4. That is, for containers of a standard diameter, including beverage cans, the can closure body 22 has a selected diameter (or radius) that is sized to correspond to the standard/beverage can body diameter. As the countersink 3 and/or a chuck wall 4 have a radial width, the size of the center panel 2 of a prior art can closure body 22 is limited. The can closure body 22 without a countersink and/or a chuck wall (and without a panel up 40 and the chuck wall 32) has a center panel 30 with a diameter of between about 1.77 inches and about 2.2 inches or about 2.0 inches. This is larger than a prior art center panel that has a diameter of about 1.75 inches. With a larger center panel 30, the can closure 20 is structured to, and does, accommodate a larger tear panel 56 or opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the center panel 30 on the shallow can closure body 22 has a diameter of about 1.96 inches. Thus, after seaming, the center panel 30 occupies about 92% of the seamed area. That is, the chuck wall 32 (and trough 42 is present) occupy about 8% of the seamed area.

With a larger center panel 30, the can closure body 22 is structured to, and does, accommodate a larger tear panel 56, as shown in FIG. 21. This solves the problem(s) noted above. In an exemplary embodiment, the tear panel 56 has an area of between about 0.5963 in.² and about 0.7 in.², or about 0.6267 in.²

Further, the larger tear panel 56 is, in an exemplary embodiment, formed with a centered rivet 62. That is, one solution for creating a larger prior art tear panel 56 was to offset the rivet 62 and tab 60 associated with the tear panel 56 so as to provide more area on the center panel 30 for the tear panel 56. Formation of an offset, or non-concentric, rivet creates problems during formation of the rivet 62 and conversion (i.e., the coupling of the tab 60 to the shell 1). That is, there are loads and other forming forces that are non-concentric relative to the blank which must be accommodated. As such, it is desirable to have a concentric rivet 62 so as to simplify the conversion process.

The can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a can body 14 by seaming the curl 34 to the upper distal end of the can body 14. The shallow can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled to a standard can body 14. In this configuration, and because the shallow can closure 20 has a reduced unit depth and/or reduced panel depth, there is a greater “head space” between the shallow can closure body 22 and the product in the container 70. If this head space is not needed or desired, the shallow can closure 20 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to a “reduced height” can body 14. That is, as used herein, a “reduced height” can body 14 means the height of the can body 14 is shorter than a standard can body for a similar volume of liquid and the can body is structured to be coupled to a shallow can closure 20. For example, a standard twelve ounce aluminum beverage can has a can body with a height of about 4.82 inches. A twelve ounce aluminum container 70 (which is commonly identified as a beverage can), including a shallow can closure 20 has a height of between about 4.65 inches to about 4.75 inches, or about 4.70 inches. Thus, the container 70 has a “reduced height.” It is understood that a can body 14 with a reduced height is formed from a blank that has a lower volume relative to a blank that forms a can body 14 with a standard height. Thus, a can body 14 with a reduced height solves the problem(s) noted above.

One disadvantage of having a reduced height can body 14 is that the container 70 may be incompatible with existing constructs that interact with containers, such as, but not limited to, beverage cans. That is, for example, vending machines are structured to interact with standard sized beverage cans. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 22 and in an exemplary embodiment, the container 70 includes a riser assembly 100. The riser assembly 100 is structured to, and does, increase the height of a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be the height of a similar standard size container. For example, as noted above, an aluminum can body for a twelve ounce beverage can has a height of about 4.82 inches. Conversely, a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 has a height of about 4.70 inches. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment, a riser assembly 100 for a twelve ounce beverage can is structured to, and does, increase the height of the container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be about 0.12 inch.

In an exemplary embodiment, the riser assembly 100 is structured to be, and is, coupled, directly coupled, or fixed to the can closure 20. That is, in one embodiment, the riser assembly 100 includes a generally toroid body 102 that is generally sized and shaped to correspond to the can closure 20. Thus, the riser assembly body 102 includes a coupling component 104 structured to be coupled to the can closure 20. In one embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 is generally solid. In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 includes a generally smooth, or solid, upper surface 106 and a plurality of ribs or gussets 108 on the lower surface. In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 includes a thin toroid body (not shown) with a number of platforms disposed about the riser assembly body 102. In this embodiment, only the platforms have a height sufficient to increase the height of a container 70 including a shallow can closure 20 to be the height of a similar standard size container.

In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 includes a filler assembly, not shown. The filler assembly is disposed on the lower side of the riser assembly body 102 and is structured to correspond, or snuggly correspond, to the trough 42. When the riser assembly body 102 is coupled to a can closure 20 including a trough 42, the filler assembly is disposed in the trough 42. In this configuration, the filler assembly is structured to, and does, reinforce or support the can closure 20. Thus, the can closure 20 is, in an exemplary embodiment, made from a thinner material than would otherwise be possible. That is, a can closure 20 made from a thinner material would collapse or buckle under the loads generated by the product, such as, but not limited to, beer or a carbonated beverage within the container 70. The filler assembly, however, supports the can closure 20 and prevents any substantial deformation of the can closure 20 and/or the can body 14. In an exemplary embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 is made from a plastic or polymer material that is less expensive to create and mold than a metal. Thus, use of a riser assembly body 102 allows for the can closure 20 and/or the can body 14 to be made from a reduced volume of metal.

In one embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 is made from a “clean burning” material. As used herein, a “clean burning” material means a material that, when burned, does not generally contaminate melting, or molten, aluminum. A riser assembly body 102 is structured to be, and is, fixed to the can closure 20. During recycling of the aluminum container 70, the clean burning riser assembly body 102 burns away (and the heat therefrom assists in melting the container 70). In another embodiment, the riser assembly body 102 is reusable and is only temporarily coupled to the can closure 20.

In another embodiment, the can closure 20 includes a trough 42 that is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough. A can closure 20 with a trough 42 that is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough has an increased buckle strength, an increased panel diameter to end diameter ratio, and an increased tear panel ratio and accommodates a larger tear panel 56. Thus, a can closure 20 with a trough 42 solves the problem(s) noted above. As used herein, and as shown in FIG. 20A, a “narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.070 inch. As used herein, a “very narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.060 inch. As used herein, an “extremely narrow trough” means a trough 42 with a trough gap less than 0.045 inch. As used herein, a “closed trough” means a trough 42 wherein the sides of the trough 42 substantially contact, i.e., abut, each other. In an exemplary embodiment, a “closed/gap trough” trough 42 includes a configuration wherein the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 do not contact each other. In another exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20B, the “closed/gap trough” is also crimped so that the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 contact each other. This configuration is identified herein as a “horizontally crimped” trough 42. That is, the sides of the trough 42 at the bottom of the trough 42 are crimped in a direction generally parallel to the plane of the center panel 30. As used herein, a “horizontally crimped” trough 42 is not the same as vertically crimpled countersinks that are known in the art. That is, countersinks that have been crimped, or partially crimped, in a direction generally normal to the plane of the center panel 30 are known. Such a crimped countersink is not, as used herein, the same as a “horizontally crimped” trough 42. Can closures 20 that include one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, a closed trough or a closed/gap trough solve the problem(s) stated above. That is, such can closures 20 have an increased buckle strength relative to known can closures. In an exemplary embodiment, the buckle strength of a can closure 20 with a “horizontally crimped” trough 42 is about 85 psi.

Further, when a can closure 20 has one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, or a closed trough, the area of the center panel 30 is increased relative to the known art. In an exemplary embodiment, the center panel 30 is one of a wide center panel, a very wide center panel, an extremely wide center panel or a full center panel. For example, in one embodiment, the center panel 30 is a “wide” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.85 inch. In another embodiment, the center panel 30 is a “very wide” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.90 inch. In another embodiment, the center panel 30 is an “extremely wide” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.94 inch. In another embodiment, the center panel 30 is a “full” center panel 30 which, as used herein, has a diameter of about 1.96 inch. The center panel 30, as described herein, solves the problem(s) stated above.

As noted above, the can closure 20, when coupled to a can body 14, has a “seam line” 39 (FIG. 13). In an exemplary embodiment, the rolled coupling construct that joins the can closure 20 to the can body 14 has a width of about 0.046 inch and the seam line 39 is disposed substantially at the middle of the rolled coupling. In an exemplary embodiment, the seam line 39 diameter is about 2.079 in.

In this configuration, a “wide” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.8899 (or 88.99%). Further, a “very wide” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9139 (or 91.39%). Further, an “extremely wide” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9331 (or 93.31%). Further, a “full” center panel 30 has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio of about 0.9620 (or 96.20%). A can closure 20 in these configurations has a center panel diameter to end diameter ratio greater than in the prior art and therefore solves the problem(s) noted above.

Similarly, when the center panel 30 is larger than those of the prior art, the tear panel ratio is smaller, which solves the problem(s) noted above. As noted above, in the known art, a 202 B64 tear panel has an area of 0.5940 in.² while a 202 CDL tear panel has an area of 0.5020 in.² The larger center panel(s) of the disclosed concept allow for a larger tear panel 56. For example, a “wide” center panel 30 and/or a “very wide” center panel 30 are structured to accommodate a tear panel 56 with an area of more than 0.5960 in.² Thus, a “wide” center panel 30 and/or a “very wide” center panel 30 has a tear panel ratio of more than 0.2867 (or 28.67%). This tear panel ratio is larger than the prior art and, therefore, solves the problem(s) stated above. Further, an “extremely wide” center panel 30 and/or a “full” center panel 30 are structured to accommodate a tear panel 56 with an area of about 0.627 in.² Thus, an “extremely wide” center panel 30 and/or a “full” center panel 30 has a tear panel 56 ratio of about 0.3198 (or 31.98%) A can closure 20 in these configurations solves the problem(s) noted above.

Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the can closure 20 has a seam line gap that is smaller than the prior art. That is, after a can closure 20 with a trough 42 is coupled to a can body 14, the can closure 20 has a seam line 39. The trough 42 is defined in part by a panel break 50. The distance between the seam line 39 and the panel break 50 is smaller than the prior art. In an exemplary embodiment, the seam line gap is one of a “small” seam line gap, a “very small” seam line gap, an “extremely small” seam line gap, or an “exceedingly small” seam line gap. As used herein, a “small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.23 inch. As used herein, a “very small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.180 inch. As used herein, an “extremely small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.160 inch. As used herein, an “exceedingly small” seam line gap is a distance less than 0.150 inch. A can closure 20 in any of these configurations solve the problem(s) stated above.

Further, in an exemplary embodiment, the radius of the trough 42, i.e., the bight 54 of the trough 42, is a simple radius. As used herein, a “simple radius” means that the trough 42 has a single curvilinear, or arcuate, portion and two generally planar sides when viewed in cross-section, as shown in FIG. 2B. Thus, the trough 42 is not “complex,” as defined above. This solves the problem(s) noted above. Further, the trough 42 has one of a small radius, a very small radius, or an extremely small radius. As used herein, a 0.15 inch trough radius is a “small radius.” As used herein, a 0.10 inch trough radius is a “very small radius.” As used herein, a 0.03 inch trough radius is an “extremely small radius.” Use of a trough 42 with one of a small radius, a very small radius, or an extremely small radius solves the problem(s) noted above.

Thus, while again noting that beverage cans are being used as an example and that the disclosed and claimed concept is applicable to any size and/or type of can, the following table includes the characteristics of exemplary embodiments of a can closure 20 for a beverage can incorporating the disclosed and claimed concept. The variable is the size of the trough 42 and the size center panel 30. That is, the center panel 30 is one of a wide center panel, a very wide center panel, an extremely wide center panel or a full center panel. The trough 42, therefore, is one of a narrow trough, a very narrow trough, an extremely narrow trough, or a closed trough, respectively. The letters on the left correspond to the characteristics identified above. Unless otherwise indicated, the units are in inches.

Wide Center Very Wide Extremely Wide Panel Center Panel Center Panel Full Center Panel A 2.1250 2.1250 2.1250 2.1250 B 2.079 2.079 2.079 2.079 C 1.850 1.900 1.9400 1.9600 D 0.229 0.180 0.140 0.130 E 0.183 0.133 0.093 0.073 F 0.0835 0.0835 0.0835 0.0835 G 0.0535 0.0535 0.0535 0.0535 H 0.137 0.137 0.137 0.137 I 0.015 0.010 0.008 0.003 J 0.020 0.020 0.020 0.020 K 4.5° 4.5° 4.5° 4.5° L  10°   8°   6° 4.5° M 88.99% 91.39% 93.31% 96.20% N 28.67% 28.67% 31.98% 31.98% A can closure 20 in any of these configurations solve the problem(s) noted above.

While specific embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternatives to those details could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of invention which is to be given the full breadth of the claims appended and any and all equivalents thereof. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A can closure comprising: a can closure body including a center panel and a peripheral curl; and wherein said can closure body has one of a reduced panel depth, a very reduced panel depth, an extremely reduced panel depth, or a beverage can reduced panel depth.
 2. The can closure of claim 1 wherein: said can closure body includes a chuck wall disposed between said center panel and said curl; and wherein said chuck wall is one of a steep chuck wall, a very steep chuck wall, an extremely steep chuck wall, or an exceedingly steep chuck wall.
 3. The can closure of claim 1 wherein: said can closure body includes a panel break and a seam line; and wherein the seam line gap is one of a small seam line gap, a very small seam line gap, an extremely small seam line gap, or an exceedingly small seam line gap.
 4. The can closure of claim 1 wherein: said can closure body has an end diameter; and wherein the center panel diameter to end diameter ratio is one of 88.99%, 91.39%, 93.31%, or 96.20%.
 5. The can closure of claim 1 wherein: the can closure body includes a tear panel; and wherein the tear panel ratio is one of 28.67% or 31.98%.
 6. A can closure comprising: a can closure body including a center panel and a chuck wall; and wherein said chuck wall is one of a steep chuck wall, a very steep chuck wall, an extremely steep chuck wall, or an exceedingly steep chuck wall.
 7. The can closure of claim 6 wherein: said can closure body includes a panel break and a seam line; and wherein the seam line gap is one of a small seam line gap, a very small seam line gap, an extremely small seam line gap, or an exceedingly small seam line gap.
 8. The can closure of claim 6 wherein: said can closure body has an end diameter; and wherein the center panel diameter to end diameter ratio is one of 88.99%, 91.39%, 93.31%, or 96.20%.
 9. The can closure of claim 6 wherein: the can closure body includes a tear panel; and wherein the tear panel ratio is one of 28.67% or 31.98%.
 10. A can closure comprising: a can closure body including a center panel, a panel break and a seam line; and wherein the seam line gap is one of a small seam line gap, a very small seam line gap, an extremely small seam line gap, or an exceedingly small seam line gap.
 11. The can closure of claim 10 wherein: said can closure body has an end diameter; and wherein the center panel diameter to end diameter ratio is one 88.99%, 91.39%, 93.31%, or 96.20%.
 12. The can closure of claim 10 wherein: the can closure body includes a tear panel; and wherein the tear panel ratio is one of 28.67% or 31.98%.
 13. A can closure comprising: a can closure body including a center panel and an end diameter; and wherein the center panel diameter to end diameter ratio is one 88.99%, 91.39%, 93.31%, or 96.20%.
 14. The can closure of claim 13 wherein: said can closure body includes a panel break and a seam line; and wherein the seam line gap is one of a small seam line gap, a very small seam line gap, an extremely small seam line gap, or an exceedingly small seam line gap.
 15. The can closure of claim 13 wherein: the can closure body includes a tear panel; and wherein the tear panel ratio is one of 28.67% or 31.98%.
 16. A can closure comprising: a can closure body including a center panel and a tear panel; and wherein the tear panel ratio is one of 28.67% or 31.98%.
 17. The can closure of claim 16 wherein said can closure body is a shallow can closure body.
 18. The can closure of claim 16 wherein: said can closure body is a beverage can closure body; and said beverage container closure body has a unit depth of less than 0.25 inch.
 19. The can closure of claim 16 wherein: said can closure body includes a panel up and a trough; and said trough disposed between said panel up and said chuck wall.
 20. The can closure of claim 16 wherein: said can closure body is a beverage can closure body; and said beverage can closure body has a volume that is one of a reduced volume, a very reduced volume, an extremely reduced volume, or an exceptionally reduced volume. 